Gareth Edwards to Direct First Stand-Alone ‘Star Wars’ Film

Lucasfilm and Disney said they are developing a number of “Star Wars” movies outside of the coming new trilogy, and Gareth Edwards will direct the first one with a screenplay by Gary Whitta.

Edwards is known for directing the recent hit Godzilla” and “Monsters” in 2010. Whitta is known for his work on “After Earth” and “The Book of Eli.”

“Ever since I saw “Star Wars” I knew exactly what I wanted to do for the rest of my life — join the Rebel Alliance! I could not be more excited and honored to go on this mission with Lucasfilm,” said Edwards.

The studios have revealed little about the film, whci is expected to arrive in theaters Dec. 16, 2016.

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